(z-ax)
A zax is a hatchet like tool that is used for cutting and dressing roofing slates.
When he dropped his zax his partner was lucky he was no longer standing below.
(Sources: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/zax; nytcrosswordingothicmisc.blogspot.com/2012/09/zax.html)
Patricia Ladensack
